German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has garnered widespread criticism over his statement that he expected about 80 percent of all Syrians in Germany to return home over the next three years.

Late on Tuesday (March 31), just hours before it was due to come to an end, the deal between the British and French governments to manage migration in the Channel was extended for two months. The extension, reported British newspape1

The Swedish government has adopted some of the most restrictive immigration policies in Europe, with particularly harsh consequences for young people. Even those who grew up in Sweden face deportation to their parents' homeland.

Germany is keen for Syrian refugees to return home. The visit by interim Syrian President al-Sharaa highlights shifting policies on repatriation and regional stability — despite accusations of human rights violations.